Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

July 15, 2011

Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo were married on July 15, 2011 in the British Virgin Islands.

The destination wedding took place at Sir Richard Branson’s private home on Necker Island in front of 35 guests. Each was given an invitation in the form of a plane ticket, but not told where they would be flying.

A four-day celebration was planned by Sharon Sacks Productions which included beach activities, boating and the wedding ceremony on Friday evening.

The vows took place in the living room of Branson’s home at sunset. Surrounded by sheer white curtains, an altar of pink and orange flowers was set up under the thatched roof of the Great House.

Vanessa walked down the aisle on the arm of her father wearing a two-piece wedding dress by Monique Lhuillier with an embellished lace corset and hand tufted skirt made of silk faille.

She carried a bouquet of fuschia gloriosas and wore the diamond stud earrings Nick had given her during their first year of dating.

Nick wore a black suit by Dolce and Gabbana. His brother, Drew Lachey, was the best man and stood at his side.

The couple exchanged rings by David Bader and recited personal vows they had written for each other. The nuptials were officiated by Nick’s father, John Lachey.

Following the ceremony, a reception was held where long tables were set up with white roses, orchids and hydrangeas as centerpieces and personalized linens for each guest.

Later in the evening, the party moved down to the beach where twinkle lights were strung from trees and the couple shared their first dance to Steve Tyrell’s “A Kiss to Build a Dream On.”

Before the night was over, the newlyweds fed each other a three-tiered wedding cake by DC Cupcakes decorated with yellow flowers.

They spent their wedding night on Necker Island before heading for their honeymoon in St. Barts.